"Turkey has been working for over half a century for its EU membership and has done more than what it should. Now the decision is the EU's," Yildirim said at a conference of his ruling AK Party, comments from which were broadcast live on television.

"Turkey always has alternatives, don't let the EU forget this."

He added that the EU's development prospects are associated only with the participation of Turkey, referring to the need to simplify visa regime.

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